Thousands of Orangemen gathered in Rossnowlagh for Donegal's annual 12th of July Parade on Saturday.

Up to 15,000 participants and spectators gathered for the largest Orange Parade in the Republic of Ireland. The rain stayed away for Orangemen from 50 lodges march along the mile long route to the village before. A total of 18 lodges from Donegal turned out to the parade and 38 bands. The religious service was conducted by Rev David Reid, Ardstraw, Co Tyrone and Rev Brian Russell, Ballintra. The chief speaker was the Deputy Grand Master of Ireland, Edward Stevenson also from Co. Tyrone. The Grand master of the Orange Order in Donegal is David Mahon who was delighted with the huge turn out and convivial atmosphere.

Traditionally Donegal's Orange Order parade is held on the Saturday before the 12th of July to accommodate visitors from across Ireland and to allow local Orangemen take part in next weeks parades in the North.